Description

The largest of the wood ferns, Goldie’s fern has an upright habit with backward-reaching, dark green fronds that grow in a crown-like cluster. Fronds are deciduous.

Ferns prefer well-drained soil high in organic matter. Most ferns require a moist, shady spot to grow. Many need plenty of moisture during the growing season and should be given an inch or more of water per week if not supplied by rains. Mulch with leaves or aged hardwood bark in the spring and fall. Fern foliage provides food for many butterflies and moths during their caterpillar stage.

Height: 3-4 ft.
Spread: 4-6 ft.
Spreads by: rhizomes
Family: Dryopteridaceae
Sun: part shade to full shade
Deer and rabbit resistant

photo credit: David J. Stang